Processing keyword: ～にとって (〜ni totte)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～にとって (〜ni totte)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～にとって (～ni totte)

1. Introduction

The expression ～にとって (～ni totte) is a useful grammar point in Japanese that indicates a perspective or a point of view regarding a particular subject. It translates roughly as "for (somebody)" or "to (somebody)" in English.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase ~にとって is used to express the idea that something is important or relevant from a specific person's perspective.

• Structure:

  • Subject + にとって + [noun/verb/adjective])

• Formation Diagram:

[Person/Entity] にとって + [Importance/Relation/Opinion]

Example Structure

• 私にとって (watashi ni totte) – "For me"
• 先生にとって (sensei ni totte) – "For the teacher"

3. Comparative Analysis

While ~にとって is used to express perspective, it is different from other expressions such as:

• ～のために (～no tame ni) which means "for the sake of" or "in order to," emphasizing the purpose or benefit for someone.
• ～に対して (～ni taishite) which means "towards" or "regarding," indicating a more active stance or relationship.

  Expression	Meaning	Usage Context
  ～にとって (～ni totte)	For someone (perspective)	Personal perspective or opinion
  ～のために (～no tame ni)	For the sake of	Purpose or benefit
  ～に対して (～ni taishite)	Towards, regarding	Relationship or stance

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • これは学生にとって大切なことです。
   • (Kore wa gakusei ni totte taisetsu na koto desu.)
   • "This is an important matter for students."
2. Informal:
   • 彼にとって、友達がすごく大事なんだ。
   • (Kare ni totte, tomodachi ga sugoku daiji nan da.)
   • "For him, friends are really important."
3. Written:
   • この問題は社会にとって重要です。
   • (Kono mondai wa shakai ni totte jūyō desu.)
   • "This issue is significant for society."
4. Spoken:
   • おばあちゃんにとって、孫は最高の宝だよ。
   • (Obaachan ni totte, mago wa saikō no takara da yo.)
   • "For grandma, her grandchildren are the greatest treasure."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

The use of ～にとって demonstrates the importance of empathy and consideration for different perspectives in Japanese culture. Understanding how something affects others is valued and shows respect.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 「私にとって、家族が一番大切です。」
  • (Watashi ni totte, kazoku ga ichiban taisetsu desu.)
  • "For me, family is the most important."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common Mistake: Confusing with ～のために. Remember, ～にとって focuses on perspective, while ～のために focuses on purpose.

• Learning Strategies:

  • Think of ～にとって as "from someone's viewpoint" or "to someone" to remember its meaning.
  • Practice forming sentences from different perspectives to reinforce the concept.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Meaning: ~にとって indicates perspective or importance from a certain viewpoint.
• Structure: Subject + にとって + [relevant context].
• Distinctions: Different from other expressions focusing on purpose or relationship.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "For me" in Japanese using ~にとって?
2. What is the difference between ~にとって and ~のために?
3. Give an example sentence using ~にとって in a formal context. By mastering this grammar point, learners can effectively express different perspectives and understand how cultural context shapes language use in Japanese.